An examination of the theological position on divine providence in the book of Esther and its application to people power I and II in the Philippines

Abstract

This paper seeks to show that the book of Esther is more than a book that introduces the reader on the origin of Purim. Accepting the arguments against the book's theological position, historicity and religiosity, this study tries to demonstrate that Esther has a profound theological position, especially on Divine Providence. Regardless of its disputable historicity and religiosity, this study seeks to discover from the selected verses (Esther 4:13-14 and 6:13b), the liberating word of God for the Filipino People. Hence Esther is studied from a Filipino feminist perspective. Combining the historical-literary examination and application, this thesis attempts to provide a clear basis as to how the book of Esther can be appropriated in the two most important historical events in this country. This whole work is divided into five chapters. The first chapter is a re-examination of Esther through a historical and literary review of the book. This chapter reveals that the whole book of Esther has three versions, the Hebrew Text, Masoretic Text (MT) and the Septuagint (Greek version). This part also reveals the reason why both the Jews and the Christians find it hard to include the book in the canon. Chapter II is devoted to the study and critical examination of Esther 4:13-14 and 6:13b. Chapter III focuses on the theological analysis of these aforementioned passages. It is shown that these selected verses have words and phrases that are filled with theological significance. In the process of this exegetical endeavour, the writer tries to discern the meaning of divine providence in the book. Despite the theological and religious questions about the book, theological analysis shows us that the words and phrases are used to echo the profound theological and religious position of the book. Phrases like, "relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another quarter" are subjected to a careful examination. The word from another "quarter" speaks of a deliverer or liberator that will come for the Jews. It does not necessarily refer to God. However, what is true is that this deliverer will come because of God's intervention. Another phrase is, "Who knows” if for a time like this you have come to the royal place?" "Who knows" are words believed to contain the profound meaning of what divine providence is. Chapter III includes the discussion on the other salient themes in the book. These salient themes help in upholding the theological importance of Esther as a book. In particular the discussion on the salient themes show why Esther is a heroine and what makes her act heroic. This work ends with Chapter IV. It deals with the writer's attempt to work out an application of the discovered theological position on divine providence to the two important historical events in this country. This chapter shows that like in the book of Esther, Filipino People Power I and II are events where divine providence had been actively present. As a whole, this work shows that the importance of the book of Esther is greater than its being the origin of Purim. Esther must also be approached with the consciousness of its being a book with a profound teaching on divine providence. Similarly, it must also be approached with sensitivity in order to see its empowering message to the Filipinos, especially the women